Returning to a cold New Zealand winter full of drab greys and browns, I felt a hunger for the vibrant colours and complex patterns that had so nourished me whilst on holiday in Bali. A common subject in traditional balinese painting is birds in trees and so I decided to follow a long time love of mine and create a series of quirky bird characters incorporating rich colour into the traditionally monochromatic medium of etching.

It seemed impossible, however, to explore a bird theme without including caged birds, which were also a common sight in Bali. Archetypally, birds represent both spirit and soul. I am always amazed when a caged bird still sings - a testament to the indomitable spirit and shining soul life that we see in such people as Mandela and Aung sun Sung and others, who speak of peace, justice and tolerance whilst yet imprisoned.